Guides, tips, and resources for woodworkers.
May 11, 2026Honest 2026 comparison of OptiCutter alternatives: free web tools without part limits, cabinet-shop options, pricing, mobile, and who each fits.
May 11, 2026Honest 2026 comparison of MaxCut alternatives for cut list optimization. Free web options, Mac and Linux picks, pricing, mobile, and who each tool fits.
Apr 15, 2026Cutting parts to exact final dimensions sounds efficient, but pro shops oversize most parts on purpose. When to add 1mm, 3mm or more - and when not to.
Apr 15, 2026A cutting diagram is a map for your saw. Read it wrong and you'll cut parts in the wrong order or orientation. How to read each symbol and plan your cuts.
Apr 15, 2026The letters on plywood (A, B, C, D and combos like A/C or BB/CC) describe face quality. What each grade looks like and which to buy for your project.
Apr 15, 2026Saw kerf is the slot of material your blade removes on every cut. On a 42-part cabinet job it wastes a quarter sheet of plywood. Here's how to plan for it.
Apr 15, 2026Cut list optimizers rotate parts to save material, but on plywood, melamine and figured panels that ruins the look or weakens the build. When to lock grain.
Mar 31, 2026Learn how to reduce plywood waste on your next woodworking project. Tips on nesting, rotation, kerf allowance, and using a cut list optimizer.
Mar 30, 2026Complete guide to plywood sheet sizes in mm and inches. Covers 4x8, 5x5, 4x4 sheets, common thicknesses, and weights per sheet.